Marisa
It is difficult to choose the college that you think is right for you. The best advice I could give is to keep an open mind. Also, consider schools at the city college and the state-university level. Examine each college by researching the programs each offers with the programs you are interested in. Make a visit to each campus to get a feel for the student life, student programs, and facilities. Ask students and professors different questions about the university; the difficulty of classwork, student life on and near campus, and pros and cons of the university. You will develop a good impression if that university is right for you.
To make the most of your college experience, find a club or student organization of something that you enjoy. Student groups are great ways to meet students who are like-minded and have similar interests to you. Also, research the study abroad programs your campus offers. It provides an opportunity to live in a foreign country and complete your coursework while doing so. Studying abroad is an incredible way to expand your cultural and educational experiences. It is also a great resume booster for future employers.
Morgan
Where ever you go get involoved. Join a club or Fraternity... make sure you balance your social life with your academics. The college experience is more than getting a degree, it discovering your own idenity.
Jessica
I find it most important to interview current students of your intended major. Find how satisfied they are with the school and why. Ask about teachers, classes, major requirements, and very importantly administration and how the school handles your business.
Clark
definately visit the college and get a full hand experience of how the campus is, what some of the students possibly do, and look around close by to see what things are close and far (grocery store, bank, etc.)
Flora
Every parent wants the best for their children and every school wants their students to succeed. Unfortunately, many students base their decision to go to the school because it is a convinient commute or less expensive than going to a school which specializes in their field of study. Sometimes it's not very unfortunate and that plan works for the individual, but for those who want more for their money should invest in a school that will transform their children into leaders of the future that will be admired by many, and not just that boss or supervisor behind the desk tucked away in the 23rd floor of some executive building. No distance or amount of money should keep individuals from learning not only how to succeed in their careers, but also take away from the school life skills that will last a life time.
-Flora Gonzalez
Laura
Look to see if your interest is in the particular school. If your interest is music, go see a concert. Make sure you know what you are looking for before making your decision.
Danielle
I would advise students to take their time in choosing the right college. It is easy to get overwhelmed or discouraged when trying to strike a balance between where you want to go and where you can realistically go. There is nothing wrong with starting out at a junior college in order to be able to go to your dream college or attending a smaller college or university within your means in order to give yourself a head start in your education. Save the prestigous universities for graduate schoolof you need to and don't worry about where you get your degree, the important part is working towards your ultimate goal. Once you are in college, wherever it may be, make sure to work hard in your education while remembering to take some time to enjoy the experience. It is important to allow yourself to take pride in your school by getting involved in activities that interest you or even just spending time getting to know your campus. Never forget that you are there to get an education and that your studies are the top priority but it is also important to enjoy the college experience while you can.
Casey
Don't worry about what you're going to do for a living. Don't worry about your family pressure. Going to college is for you and you alone. Do what you love and everything else will work out.
Kelsey
For parents be supportive, we appreciate advice and your knowledge but not when you tell us what to do or press onto us what you didn't (or did) get to do at a younger age because it not might be right for your kids.
Definately visit different schools, this is the best way to get a feel for the atmosphere and how to find a comfortable fit. Also don't be afraid to try new things and take chances, I didn't for a long time and i missed out on a lot of things, and if at all possible study abroad and travel see what else it out there in the world. It is Fascinating.
Crystal
Well I think college is the biggest decision of our lives and our parents guidance is absolutely needed. Parents should help their kids with information and trips to the college, they should be enthusiastic about it and supportive. The best advice I can give to students when choosing a college, choose something challenging but comfortable enough to deal with. Once you have found the right one for you make sure that you do not take too much advantage of the freedom. The last thing you want to do is end your first semester on a bad note. Keep yourself informed on how things work on campus and find a mentor to answer questions. I think the best piece of advice I was given and would give is learn how to find a balance in the college life. Once that balance is found, your college experience will be enriched with knowledge and fun!